Amami Oshima Island - 100 Frequently Asked Questions（FAQ)

A. It depends on your purpose. If you want to enjoy playing in the ocean, spring through fall are good choices. If you want to go whale watching, winter through early spring are good choices. Spring and fall are also good times to visit if you are looking for ease of movement during your entire visit.

A. In summer, the sun is strong and it is easy to feel quite hot outdoors. It is good for playing in the ocean, but when strolling or driving, it is important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from sunburn.

A. Although swimming is not the same as in mid-summer, you can still enjoy ocean experiences and whale watching. In winter, the focus is more on "seeing and experiencing" rather than "swimming.

A. Amami is a rainy area and it is important to check the weather, especially during the rainy season. The sky can change in a short time.

A. Yes. Typhoons can cause disruptions to flights and boats, and outdoor activities may be cancelled.

A. Yes. Combining a World Heritage Center, indoor facilities, and cultural experiences makes it easy to spend time even when the weather breaks.

A. Spring, summer, and early fall, when the sun shines brightly, are the best times to see the ocean's colors. However, visibility also depends on the weather.

A. Depending on the season and weather conditions, winds may become stronger on some days, which may affect ocean activities. Activities may be changed or cancelled depending on sea conditions.

A. It is strong. Hats and sunscreen are a good idea, as there are few shaded areas at the seaside, capes, and scenic spots along the drive.

A. Except in mid-summer, the temperature tends to drop in the mornings and evenings and on windy days. It is easier to adjust the temperature if you have a light jacket.

A. Although helpful, the weather on the island is changeable. We recommend that you check the forecast for the day before and the day of your visit, as well as local information.

A. Yes, there are. Since ocean activities are affected by waves and wind, they may be cancelled or changed in the interest of safety.

A. For the first time, it is easy to arrange a 2-night/3-night/4-day tour. Since the sights are widely scattered, if the tour is too short, it is easy to focus on transportation.

A. Yes, it is possible. However, it is easier to visit only a few areas. It is better to choose either the airport area or the Naze area.

A. It is easy to achieve a balance by combining the scenic spots in the northern part of the city, nature experiences in Sumiyosho, and walking around the town around Naze.

A. It will be easier to get around the main island with more time to spare, and Kakaroma Island will be an easier candidate.

A. If you have 3 nights and 4 days, you will be less busy with travel. It is easier to organize a tour of the surrounding area with consecutive nights.

A. It is easy to get a sense of Amami's character by combining a drive along the coast, a lookout spot, or a nature tour at night.

A. It is easier to get around if you combine spectacular spots, seaside views, town walks, and light nature experiences.

A. It is enjoyable enough. It is a destination that goes well with nature observation, night tours, and city walking.

A. First of all, transportation. Whether or not you use a rental car will greatly affect the area you can get around and how you choose accommodations.

A. If you are interested in scenery, daytime is the best time to visit. Some roads are dark at night, so if it is your first time, it is safer to travel in daylight.

A. It is often easier to be based at the same inn for the first time. It is easier to reduce the burden of travel and luggage.

A. If proximity to the airport and scenery are important, the northern area is the best choice, if dining and convenience are important, Nase is the best choice, and if Kakaroma Island is also a consideration, the southern area is the best choice.

A. The main access is by plane and boat.

A. Generally, Amami Airport is used. It is easy to use as a starting point for sightseeing on the island.

A. The first thing to do is to check the airline's information and secure your accommodations and next means of transportation as soon as possible. Since the destination is easily affected by weather, it is safer not to overcrowd your schedule.

A. Although not required, it is quite convenient. If you are looking for an efficient way to get around on a short stay, a rental car is easy to use.

A. In addition to bus transportation, there is a way to combine tours with transportation.

A. It is possible. You can use the Naze area as a base or take a tour with a pick-up service.

A. It can be used. It can be used as a means of transportation between major locations.

A. It is available, but the waiting time and number of cars vary depending on the location and time of day. If you are going to the suburbs, it is safe to check in advance.

A. It takes about 55 minutes by bus. The time required by car also depends on road conditions.

A. You can cross by boat from the Amami Oshima side.

A. Due to rental car returns and crowds, we recommend that you head there well in advance.

A. The flow can be slow depending on the time of day and location, although not as slow as in larger cities. It is a good idea to allow plenty of time for travel.

A. Because some roads are dark, it is important to drive carefully and at a moderate speed. Safety is also recommended as a priority when traveling after the night tour.

A. Nase is a good candidate if convenience is important, Kasari area if proximity to the airport and seaside scenery are important, and the Sumiyoshi area if you want to experience nature.

A. For the first time, it is easy to choose Naze or the northern part of the city. Nase offers dining and shopping, while the northern part offers airport access and scenic views.

A. It is easy to enjoy the scenery and the stay itself. It is suitable for travelers who want to spend a relaxing time with less travel.

A. Convenient access to dining and shopping, making it an easy base to move around even if it is your first time in Amami.

A. Accommodation costs vary depending on the time of year and facilities, so it is difficult to make a general statement based on area alone. It is easier to choose if you first compare conditions around Nase or the airport.

A. It is convenient if you often depart early in the morning. We recommend that you decide according to your itinerary.

A. If you want to enjoy the sea view throughout your stay, it is easy to lead to satisfaction.

A. If you are staying for a long period of time or mainly playing in the ocean, it is a good idea to check if laundry facilities are available.

A. It is easier to organize if you prioritize location, parking, and ease of dining to reduce the burden of travel.

A. If you do not use a rental car, it is easy to reduce the burden of transportation. It is recommended to check before making a reservation whether it is supported or not.

A. Transportation, lodging, and activity reservations can be difficult to obtain during summer vacation and consecutive holidays.

A. Yes. Since weather and sea conditions can affect both lodging and tours, advance confirmation is recommended.

A. The island is rich in nature, so it is a good idea to take precautions against insects near forests and rivers.

A. Mangrove canoeing, trekking, night tours, snorkeling, and whale watching are standard.

A. You can have fun. You can also enjoy non-swimming activities, such as going to see the scenery, spending time on the beach, or choosing to cruise.

A. The Sumiyoshi area is representative. It extends into the estuary where the Yakusho and Sumiyogawa Rivers converge.

A. Yes. The Kuroshio Forest Mangrove Park also offers guided canoeing experiences.

A. The place is attractive for its pristine forest landscape and Amami's unique natural environment.

A. Currently, there are rules for use, and visitors are required to be accompanied by a certified eco-tour guide. There is also a limit to the number of tours.

A. I can feel the presence of nature and wildlife in Amami differently than in the daytime.

A. It is not always possible to see them because they are wild animals. The possibility of encountering them is the reason why night tours are so popular.

A. The tour is often guided around the winter months of January through March. It is recommended to check the latest implementation period at the time of reservation.

A. Yes, you can. This is a regular activity during the warmer months.

A. Yes. Diving and scuba diving plans are also guided.

A. It can be done. It goes well with mangrove experiences as well as ocean experiences.

A. Candidates include the World Heritage Center, the Mangrove Park exhibit, and cultural experiences.

A. Yes, you can. It is easier to participate if you choose by checking the experience hours and age requirements.

A. There are ways to organize your tour around low-impact activities such as scenic drives and indoor tours. The final decision should be based on your physical condition and your doctor's instructions.

A. Yes. It is easy to enjoy the view spots, drive along the seaside, walk around town, and indoor facilities without any difficulty.

A. In places where there is little city light, it is easier to see the starry sky. It depends on weather and moonlight.

A. It is quite dark in some places. It is safe to travel on unfamiliar roads with plenty of time to spare.

A. Amami Oshima Island, together with Tokunoshima Island, northern Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island, will be designated a World Natural Heritage site in July 2021, and is recognized for its high biodiversity and many endemic and rare species.

A. Yes, there is. It is easier to deepen your experience if you understand the background of Amami's nature and World Heritage sites before visiting the local forest and mangroves. Admission is free.

A. For popular experiences and seasonal plans, we recommend that you confirm the dates as soon as they are decided.

A. Yes, but availability varies from day to day. It is safer to check early.

A. Yes, it is possible. You can also take a boat from the main island and make a day trip to the island.

A. This is one of the Amami Ten Sceneries and is a representative cape where you can enjoy coral reefs, the horizon, and subtropical-like scenery.

A. Yes. Close to the city center, this is a typical seaside area known as a swimming and sunset spot.

A. Ohama Seaside Park is famous as a sunset spot.

A. If it is your first time, it is hard to miss a northern scenic spot like Cape Ayamaru.

A. Yes, you can, but Amami is also an island with a strong forest appeal. It is easy to broaden the impression of your trip by including one mangrove or night tour.

A. Yes, you can. A. Yes, you can.

A. Yes, we do. There is also a guide for ATV experience.

A. Yes, there is. You will also be guided through the hands-on categories of dyeing and Oshima tsumugi (silk pongee) dressing.

A. It is easy to experience Amami culture if you consider experiencing traditional culture and visiting related facilities.

A. Chicken rice is a typical Amami specialty.

A. Yes. It is easy to be a candidate as a specialty that is unique to Amami.

A. If you have a specific restaurant in mind, or during peak season, it is a good idea to confirm in advance.

A. If convenience is important, the Naze area is an easy candidate.

A. Yes, you can. You can include a tour of restaurants and eateries, both along the coast and in the city center, in your itinerary.

A. Yes, there are. There are places to shop in major areas.

A. It is possible to some extent in major areas, but it is safer to prepare in advance on days when you head out to the suburbs.

A. Brown sugar, Oshima tsumugi related products, and brown sugar shochu are typical Amami candidates.

A. It varies considerably depending on the time of year, airfare, accommodations, and whether or not a rental car or tour is used.

A. It is a good idea to have it with you. Payment methods vary from facility to facility.

A. It is available in major areas, but on days when you will be out in natural areas for long periods of time, it is a good idea to prepare ahead of time.

A. Yes, if available, but it may be difficult depending on the time of year. Early confirmation is recommended if necessary.

A. There are restrictions depending on the location. In the vicinity of airports or where nature conservation considerations require it, you should check the laws and local rules.

A. The basics are important: do not chase living creatures around, follow the rules of entry, and be mindful of sound and light. In World Natural Heritage areas, the emphasis is on compatibility with conservation.

A. The island is much larger than you might imagine, and there are many sights scattered throughout the island. It is safe to say that you should not estimate too little time for travel.

A. It is to underestimate weather changes and travel time. It is recommended to check the latest information even last minute.

A. It is easy to feel the Amami-like atmosphere if you combine elements of the sea, forest, and town walking within a reasonable range.

A. This destination is suitable for those who are interested not only in the sea, but also in forests, living creatures, and culture. The island is an easy place to experience the value of a World Natural Heritage Area.